Aston Villa have announced the permanent transfer of winger Moussa Diaby to Al Ittihad. Diaby, who joined Villa last summer for a club-record fee of over £50 million, scored six goals and provided eight assists in 38 Premier League matches in his debut season.
Despite turning down a move to Saudi Arabia last year, Diaby accepted Al Ittihad’s renewed offer, which also approached the £50 million mark.
“Villans, thank you for everything. It’s time to say goodbye,” Diaby shared on social media. “I want to express my gratitude to the club, teammates, staff, and everyone at Aston Villa. I’ve always given my best, and we’ve shared some memorable moments. We’ve had a fantastic season and achieved our goals. The club will be in the Champions League next year, and I wish them all the best. Villans, you will always be in my heart.”
Villa may have already secured a replacement for Diaby by re-signing former academy player Jaden Philogene from Hull City. Samuel Iling Junior also arrived as part of the deal that sent Douglas Luiz to Juventus.
Cameron Archer has returned from Sheffield United following their relegation, but he is expected to be loaned out or sold permanently.
Diaby’s departure provides Villa with essential funds after spending nearly £150 million on new signings this summer. Along with Philogene, Iling Junior, and Archer, Villa have signed Amadou Onana, Ian Maatsen, Ross Barkley, Enzo Barrenechea, and Lewis Dobbin.
